Submitted by Britney Hardin from Payne County Youth Services
In an exciting development for the community, Payne County Youth Services (PCYS) has received a generous funding opportunity from the Oklahoma Department of Commerce through the Emergency Solutions Grant, alongside support from the Lions Club International Foundation, Stillwater Noon Lions, and the Oklahoma Department of Juvenile Affairs. This funding has been utilized to construct a state-of-the-art fitness center for the residents of the Emergency Youth Shelter, promoting healthy lifestyles and wellness among the youth it serves. Kicker/Stillwater Designs also showed their support by donating sound system equipment.
The announcement marks a significant step forward for the shelter, which provides essential services to at-risk youth while residing at the shelter. The new fitness center will not only offer a space for physical activity but also create an environment that encourages teamwork, self-esteem, and personal growth.
To celebrate this milestone, PCYS hosted a ribbon cutting with the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce on Thursday, August 8, 2024 at the Emergency Youth Shelter located in Stillwater. Community members, local leaders, and supporters were invited to join the festivities and see firsthand the positive impact this new facility will have on the youth in Payne County.
"We are thrilled to receive this funding and support from both the Oklahoma Department of Juvenile Affairs," said Janet Fultz, Executive Director of Payne County Youth Services. “Providing out shelter residents with this opportunity will assist them in emotional and behavioral regulation, which will enhance the positivity of their time at our shelter.”
PCYS Executive Director Janet Fultz (center-left) holding a framed dollar, representing the opening of the fitness center, and Chamber of Commerce CEO Alane Zannotti (center-right).
The fitness center includes various exercise equipment and space for group activities, ensuring that all resident youth have access to resources that can help them lead healthier lives. This initiative highlights the commitment of PCYS and its partners to provide a safe and supportive environment for the youth of Payne County. To maintain confidentiality for shelter residents, use of the fitness center is restricted to youth while they are residents of the shelter.
As the community gathered to cut the ribbon, there was a moment of celebration not just for the organization, but for the entire community that believes in the potential of its youth. Together, they are building a brighter future, one healthy step at a time.
For more information, please contact Payne County Youth Services at 405-377-3380 or visit their website at www.pcys.org.
